Holistic Wellness
-
Healthy Hemp for Hip Dysplasia
HempMy Pet is the first certified organic, vertically-integrated hemp-oil production company, growing their hemp on their Colorado farm and having a hand in every aspect. I spoke with one of the co-founders and immediately knew this was a passion; passion for animals and wellness is something I can relate to! As an animal massage therapist, I strive for natural wellness for my dogs and horses whenever possible. My dog Gonzo has shown early signs of hip dysplasia. He’s been receiving regular massage and a few acupuncture sessions but I use a holistic approach. My goal is to have him on a natural anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and pain. My…
-
Phys-phys-physio
At the start of 2018, I’d had enough of avoiding dressage like the plague. I’d tried to kid myself for some time that if I preferred jumping, that I didn’t need dressage anyway. Of course, I was deluding myself. I knew as well as the next person that every stride you take between fences is flatwork, so the better our flatwork, the better our rhythm, suppleness, canter, and so on. My loan mare, Flora, is a 15.3hh bay Thoroughbred mare. Originally bred and trained for racing, she never made the track in the end. She was sold off as a happy hacker for a number of years, despite her…
-
The Power of Holistic Wellness
What is holistic wellness and why should it be widely available to all? The term is rather straightforward. Holistic meaning treating the “whole” body. Holistic veterinarians and health providers alike account for mental and social factors, rather than just the physical symptoms of a disease to treat their patients. These techniques are humane, non-invasive, and centered on stress reduction and compassion. Some of these techniques may include laser therapy, acupuncture, aromatherapy, herbal medicine, osteopathy, massage and more. Overview Often the perception of a “holistic veterinarian” is one that thinks outside the box of conventional medicine and chooses instead to focus on natural treatments, or alternative therapies. As of a studied…
-
Vet Chat Episode 2- Limping and Hip Pain in Your Dog
My dog Gonzo injured himself again. Recently he presented with a significant limp in his right hind. He will occasionally overdo it and strain a muscle. Last July, he pulled both hips out of alignment requiring anti-inflammatories, chiropractic work, and acupuncture. Well, he did it again. * This posts contains affiliate links. If you click the link I may receive a small commission at no cost to you, to help keep my pups in dog treats. All opinions are my own. Luckily my friend and colleague Dr. Kendra Pope was there to help! Gonzo loves the vet. My dogs are the opposite of afraid, and so I brought him to…
-
Providing Laminitis Pain Relief with Equine Massage Therapy
One of the major physical conditions that affects horses is laminitis.It is believed that the diet of a horse has a lot to do with it. But you can provide pain relief naturally with the therapeutic benefits of equine massage therapy. Meaning of Laminitis Laminitis is considered as one of the most painful conditions of the horse hoof’s sensitive laminae. In this condition, what happens is that the attachments or bonds inside the laminae tend to become weak and start to break down rapidly. This results in excruciating pain and leave the horse restless. The visible characteristics of this condition are sole getting very tender, horses finding…
-
5 Illnesses Every Dog Owner Should Know
Being a pet owner is full of fun and loving moments but it can also bring a lot of responsibility. One thing that pet owners must do is keep an eye on their dog’s health. Dogs can get many different kinds of illnesses, ranging from mild annoyances to severe concerns. Having a good relationship with your vet is a great way to keep your dog healthy, especially if you are the owner of a new puppy. Keeping yourself educated on some of the most common illnesses that dogs suffer from can also ensure that you get help quickly if something is wrong. These are the most common illnesses every dog…
-
Vet Chat Episode 1 with Dr. Kendra Pope
Welcome to the first installment of the vlog series, Vet Chat. My friend and colleague, integrative veterinarian, Dr. Kendra Pope was gracious to take time out of her busy schedule and sit down with me to discuss her background and growing trends in veterinary medicine. Those of you who know me may be surprised that I am a nervous public speaker. I have a lot of confidence in certain things, but video makes me nervous. I’d rather be behind the camera or better yet, behind the computer/ pen writing about it. At nature I’m an observer. But I’ve never been one to let life pass me by.…
-
The Essential Oil Element: Melaleuca
Tea Tree Oil: A Natural Antiseptic and Insect Repellent Most of you interested in aromatherapy or holistic health will have heard of tea tree oil, or melaleuca. It can be found in natural cleaning products and beauty products. But what is it exactly and how may this essential oil be used with your horse or dog? What is Meleleuca? Melaleuca alternifolia is an Australian plant that has been widely used in Australia for 100 years. In the past several decades there have been studies revealing the health benefits of tea tree oil, especially as a natural antiseptic. Properties and Benefits of Tea Tree Oil This powerful…
-
Thermal Imaging in Equine Massage Therapy
Alternative therapies have a multitude of health benefits, especially the sports massage which I use in my practice with horses and dogs. But sometimes prospective clients remain unconvinced. How do you convince someone that equine sports massage really can increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility? Seeing is believing. We love our clients and build amazing relationships with them over time. Often I am asked how often I’m kicked or bitten. The answer is never. Now that doesn’t mean an animal doesn’t react when we hit a sore spot but a good massage therapist, and someone who knows animals, will be able to block easily. Often the animal doesn’t want…
-
3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Fit and Fabulous
As our dogs age their metabolism slows and they can become increasingly heavier. Obesity in dogs causes unnecessary pressure on their joints, vertebrae, and contributes to additional health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Give your dog the best possible chance to live a long and healthy life. Here are three easy ways to keep your dog fit and fabulous. Monitor Food Intake Exercise Regularly Regular Health Exams 1.Monitor Food Intake Seems like a no brainer, right? You’d be surprised at the number of dog owners that over feed their pets either with too large a portion or treats. Balancing proper nutrition and…
